South Africa is home to some of the best wine producers and sommeliers in the world, with a number of them earning both international and local accolades for the in-depth insights and knowledge they provide on all things vino.  

With the festive season in full swing, and wine being an all-year-round drink to savour, we turned to the country’s top sommeliers, all of whom have been past recipients of the Eat Out Woolworths Wine Service Award. From their go-to wine-sipping spots to their favourite vintages, here’s the inside scoop. 

Bafana Zondo

What are your favourite places to drink wine in South Africa, and why do you love them?

Marble Cape Town

The newly opened Marble Cape Town is an iconic addition to the city’s wine scene. With breathtaking 360-degree views of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and Robben Island, it’s as visually stunning as it is conceptually bold. Jan-Hendrik Venter, along with Wickus and their team of sommeliers, has curated a daring and versatile wine list that is truly world-class.  

The list combines South African classics, international icons, and rare vintage “relics”, providing a playground for connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts alike. Its by-the-glass options are equally outstanding, offering a chance to explore without limits. What sets Marble apart is the thoughtfulness behind the list.  

The sommeliers have poured their heart and soul into creating a wine experience that celebrates the best of South African terroir while seamlessly integrating international benchmarks. Marble is not just a venue – it’s an ode to the art of wine, a place where every bottle tells a story, and the setting amplifies its magic. 

Signature Umhlanga 

Under the expert guidance of sommelier Mxolisi Mahatshi, Signature Umhlanga has become a haven for wine lovers. Their wine list is a careful curation of South African boutique labels and international showstoppers, balancing accessibility with exclusivity. Mxolisi’s selections are thoughtful, offering by-the-glass options that range from the approachable to the sublime. 

Signature Umhlanga is a space where wine appreciation is elevated to an art form. Mxolisi’s ability to pair wines with the venue’s exquisite dishes speaks to his expertise and dedication. This isn’t just a wine bar; it’s a destination where passion and precision come together to create a memorable experience for every guest. 

 Ethos 

At Ethos, head sommelier Mike Buthelezi has created a wine programme that epitomises elegance and versatility. The list features South African icons alongside international gems, offering something for every palate. Mike’s by-the-glass selection is particularly impressive, showcasing wines that are approachable yet sophisticated. 

Mike’s vision is evident in every detail of the wine list. Ethos has become a sanctuary for wine enthusiasts, a place where each bottle has a story and every sip is an invitation to explore. The balance of rare vintages and emerging producers ensures that Ethos remains a dynamic and exciting destination for wine lovers. 

Is there a wine that you’re currently obsessed with? 

I’m currently obsessed with the Raats Eden High Density Chenin Blanc. This wine is a true masterpiece, crafted with precision and passion. Its layered complexity – ripe stone fruits, vibrant acidity, and a mineral-driven finish – captures the very essence of South African Chenin Blanc. What makes it even more special is its ability to evolve in the glass, revealing new nuances with every sip. Bruwer Raats has outdone himself with this wine, creating a bottle that is as exciting as it is elegant. 

What’s the perfect summer wine?  

The Cape Winemakers Guild Semillon Gris by Andrea Mullineux is the ultimate summer wine. Its delicate fruit profile, refreshing acidity, and subtle spice make it a versatile choice for warm weather. What sets it apart is its textural elegance, offering something light yet complex – perfect for pairing with summer favourites like seafood, grilled vegetables, or even a simple charcuterie board. Andrea Mullineux has transformed a rare varietal into something truly extraordinary, making it the quintessential companion for sunny days and al fresco dining. 

What are you excited to see most in the wine industry in 2025? 

I’m thrilled to see the rise of South Africa’s independent producers gaining international recognition. These trailblazing winemakers are pushing boundaries, crafting wines that are bold, unique, and deeply expressive of our diverse terroirs. As they step onto the global stage, they are reshaping perceptions of South African wine, showcasing the innovation and creativity that defines our industry.  

Their success will not only elevate the country’s reputation but also inspire the next generation of winemakers to continue innovating and dreaming big.

Bafana Zondo, sourced (Instagram)

Victor Okolo

As the group head sommelier for Grub & Vine Culture Group, and the awardee of the Eat Out WCellar Wine Service Award 2022, Victor’s passion for all things wine can be seen throughout his star-studded career.  

What are your favourite places to drink wine in South Africa, and why do you love them?

Culture Wine Bar  

This bar has probably the most extensive wine list in Cape Town. Including local and international selections, it’s a great bar for sommeliers and wine enthusiasts to learn and explore various options by the glass.  

It has a private space upstairs, called the Wine Library, for private tastings and events, great vibes on the weekends but still maintaining class, and various small-plate options as well. 

Openwine  

Located at 72 Wale Street in Cape Town, it offers a casual setting and great vibes on Sundays with live music. Openwine has a very well-built community – the moment you walk in there, you’re sure to see a familiar face, and they offer a very good cheese platter too. 

 Cassette Tiny Wine Bar  

Literally a tiny wine bar with a funky wine selection and relaxed and casual service, it’s new and trendy. The wine list promotes very niche wines and unpopular producers, which makes it very interesting. It’s a super-cool wine bar located on the main road in Sea Point.  

Is there a wine that you’re currently obsessed with?

Mvemve Raats Bordeaux Blend 2021 is an absolutely stunning wine.

What’s the perfect summer wine?  

The perfect summer wine is the Lost Boy Pet Nat 2023 – very refreshing for hot summer days. 

 What are you excited to see most in the wine industry in 2025? 

I’m excited to taste the new vintages; I’ve heard from a few winemakers that the 2024 climate was favourable, so I’m keen to try the wines. I’m also excited for sommelier growth in the industry.  

Victor Okolo, sourced (Instagram)

Joseph Dhafana

Multi-award-winning sommelier, who was awarded the 2019 Eat Out Wine Service Award, and founder of Mosi Wines and Spirits, Joseph Dhafana embodies the pursuit of perfection in both his knowledge and craft of all things wine.  

With a wealth of knowledge and a tenacious passion for wine, Joseph was selected as a judge on the panel for the prestigious 2023 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards. 

What are your favourite places to drink wine in South Africa, and why do you love them?

Time Out Market wine bar in the Waterfront, Culture Wine Bar in Bree Street and Openwine in Wale Street.  

They are all different – the Time Out Market offers mostly SA wines, whereas Culture Wine Bar offers both International and local wines and delicious nibbles too. 

Is there a wine that you’re currently obsessed with?

Swartland Chenin Blanc – you can’t go wrong, as the wine reflects the true character of its origin. 

What’s the perfect summer wine?    

Light white blends – they are refreshing and uncomplicated with brilliant acidity. 

What are you excited to see most in the wine industry in 2025? 

More wines that are made with minimum intervention and perhaps less oak. I hope to see wines which show varietal typicity. 

Joseph T Dhafana

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